Nigeria will later today go against Morocco in the quarterfinals after handing a defeat to host Egypt at the 2026 African Beach Volleyball Nations Championship in Alexandria.
The 2024 African Games bronze medallists defeated Egypt 2-0 (21-17, 21-16) in the Round of 16 on Friday, August 21.
Nigeria started the first set on a strong note, with the duo of Esther Mbah and Pamela Bawa putting the host nation under pressure. The Nigerian pair eventually secured the set 21-17.
The Nigerian side continued their impressive performance in the second set, maintaining their momentum to defeat the former champions 21-16 and seal their place in the quarterfinals.
Reacting to the victory, board member of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation, Chinedu Onikeku (OLY) said the players had put a smile on the faces of Nigerians back home.
Onikeku praised Mbah and Bawa for their impressive display against the host nation, Egypt.
She said the duo had shown that they are a force to reckon with in African beach volleyball.
Onikeku added that the players bounced back strongly from their loss to Morocco in their third and final group-stage match, making a huge statement with their victory over the hosts.
Onikeku said: “Nigerians are excited with the performance of the girls against the host nation, Egypt, in the Round of 16.
“The girls have put a smile on the faces of Nigerians back home. Esther and Pamela gave a good account of themselves and proved that they are a force to reckon with in beach volleyball.
“They bounced back from their loss against Morocco in their third group-stage match, and this victory is a huge statement from the team.”
